Overview & Reviews

The Kia Sedona may not be the first name you think of when shopping for a new or used minivan. The original Sedona had almost everything needed to be a success in the minivan segment, but it was pudgy, weighing some 400-700 pounds more than its rivals, which blunted acceleration at higher speeds and didn't do much for cornering ability. Still, overall performance was relatively refined, if not exciting.

With the second-generation Sedona benefiting from a diet and more power under the hood, Kia's minivan is no longer huffing and puffing to catch up to the more expensive class leaders. Plus, it delivers in the key areas of build quality, passenger comfort, crash test scores and storage space. However, this Sedona has been in production for many years without a major redesign. Late-model Sedonas have been eclipsed by more recently redesigned rivals.

Current Kia Sedona
After a one-year hiatus, the Kia Sedona has returned for 2014, essentially unchanged except for a few styling updates. Power is provided by the 3.5-liter V6 that's now rated at 269 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque and again paired up with a six-speed automatic.

Inside there is seven-passenger capacity with second-row captain's chairs and a 60/40-split third row that folds into the floor. Sized similarly to most other minivans, the Sedona offers plenty of legroom for all three rows, though the third-row seat suffers from a low cushion and limited headroom for taller folks. Maximum cargo space rates a generous 142 cubic feet, and plenty of cubbies are available for quick stowage of things like cell phones, purses and snacks.

The base LX comes with foglights, roof rack rails, rear parking sensors, air-conditioning with rear controls, a 60/40-split third-row seat, cruise control, a tilt-only steering wheel, Bluetooth phone connectivity and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio, a USB port and an auxiliary audio jack. An option package adds alloy wheels, dual power-sliding side doors, a rearview camera and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Highlights of the EX include a power liftgate, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery and heated front seats. EX options include a sunroof, rain-sensing windshield wipers, power-adjustable pedals, driver's memory presets and a navigation system that includes an eight-speaker Infinity sound system.

All told, the latest Sedona still has some nice attributes, including a smooth ride, secure handling, attractive pricing, a roomy interior and, of course, Kia's healthy warranty coverage. However, the Sedona lacks some of its more modern rivals' refinement. Additionally, it's not available with some useful minivan features, such as keyless ignition/entry, a rear-seat entertainment system, blind-spot monitoring and a second-row bench seat. If overall value is more important than having the latest gizmos, then the Sedona should satisfy. If not, we suggest also checking out its competition.

Used Kia Sedona Models
The second-generation Kia Sedona minivan debuted in 2006 and ran through 2012, after which it took a one-year hiatus. Originally, this Sedona was powered by a 3.8-liter V6 with 244 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque. Output went up to 250 hp from 2007-'09, but was dropped back to 244 for 2010. A five-speed automatic was standard. For '11 the Sedona received a more sophisticated 3.5-liter V6 (rated at 271 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque) matched to a six-speed automatic. Given its superior power and fuel economy, if you have a choice we recommend this powertrain over the earlier one.

From 2007-'10, the Sedona was also offered in a short-wheelbase model that gave up 5 inches to the regular Sedona and featured a 50/50-split removable third-row bench. It was offered in base trim only.

Inside, these Sedonas are somewhat plain but not unattractive. Most cabin materials are of decent quality, but there are a few cheap-feeling elements here and there. Gauges and controls are easy to use, apart from the less-than-intuitive manual climate control.

Available in LX and EX trim levels, even the most basic Sedona has a full complement of safety features, front and rear climate controls, keyless entry, full power features and, for '09 and later, satellite radio and an iPod/USB audio jack. Bluetooth connectivity was added for '11. Springing for the EX means added luxury features such as alloy wheels, a power liftgate, power seats and a trip computer. Leather upholstery, a DVD entertainment system, a navigation system and a rearview camera were optional on the EX.

In reviews, we found these Sedonas offered solid performance, a quiet and comfortable ride and confident handling. Given its long warranty, well-rounded nature and attractive pricing, a used Sedona from this generation makes a good choice for a families looking for maximum minivan value.

The first-generation Kia Sedona ran from 2002-'05 and went with the "most features for the money" strategy. But in addition to providing a lot for families on a tight budget, the Sedona also boasted excellent build quality and impressive crash test scores. However, compared to its successors, this Sedona was 400 pounds heavier and its modest 3.5-liter 195-hp V6 didn't help matters. Two trim levels were offered: well-equipped LX and plusher EX.

The debit side of the ledger included a portly weight of 4,800 pounds (anywhere from 400-700 pounds heavier than its competitors), somewhat lazy handling and mediocre steering feel and response. This Sedona also lacks a fold-flat third-row seat and therefore doesn't offer as much cargo flexibility and capacity as some other vans with that feature.

We liked this Kia Sedona for its comfortable seating, roomy cabin, quiet ride and high crash test scores. Poor reliability could be a concern, however. Only minor detail changes, such as slight revisions to the grille and taillights, occurred during this Sedona's four-year run, so condition and mileage should be the chief considerations when shopping for one.

User Reviews:

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  kia van - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By rocwilliam - June 11 - 10:00 am

  gas mileage is a bit low, hope this improves after vehicle is broken in, rides well family loves it, overall seems to be a good vehicle

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  never buy again - 2007 Kia Sedona
  By prettylady - June 6 - 12:12 pm

  I bought a Kia van in 2002 the first one they made it was ok I drove it every day. The 2007 does not add up. I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER KIA of any kind. You never see them rated with the best cars to buy. I like the exterior the look of it the paint job last for 2 years, the engine light come on in all of them. I have several friend with kia cars and the engine light can on in every ones car I new. kia will not help you with the complaint you have about there cars.

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  Not a bad value - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Justin - May 29 - 1:35 pm

  Bought this car in 2010 when family expanded with twins. Rear passenger power door works about about 10% of the time. Only a few trips to mechanic for some leaks, oil and radiator. But expensive repairs when needed. Blows signal bulbs and headlight bulbs every three months, which I learned to fix proficiently on my own. Drove this van on numerous family trips all over, and some very long distance trips as well. Never once did it break down and leave us stranded, never once did it fail to start. Not the highest quality, but great value. I couldnt afford a Honda or Toyota, but those have their own problems too, just research them. Also we were severely rear ended with all of my kids in the car, including a three year-old in the third row seat. The rear window blew up but the door stayed solid and didnt come anywhere near the third row. At the end of the day I would trust a Kia with my family.

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  You get what you pay for... - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Michelle - February 23 - 3:40 am

  I mainly purchased the Kia Sedona because of price -- it had the most features in its price range. But 3 years later, I am so unhappy with it that I am rolling over the balance due on it in order to buy another van. There are a few things I REALLY dont like about the van, but it boils down to this; its cheap. Cheaply made and cheaply designed. The visibility out the rear and sides of the van is SO bad. Its a miracle I havent run over a child. The CD player broke after the first year. The seats are heavy and hard to remove. The belts wore out quickly, the alternator is going out at only 80k miles. The exterior is poor -- it dents if you look at it funny. Spend a little more and get a REAL van.

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  Not with your money - 2011 Kia Sedona
  By teac - January 12 - 4:14 am

  I purchased a Sedona new in june 2011, from day one I had nothing but small problems with it and the dealer just didnt seem to know how to fix it. First the radio had a mind of its own, when playing the cd, it shutoff and played the radio, when playing the radio it changed stations, some times it even shut off completly.Eighteen months later and a total of 12 days in the shop and a replaced radio(so they said) it was still broken. Some of the other problems bad idle pully, bad batteries, loose ground wires preventing the windows or locks to work and one dealer wanted 450 to fix. nothing but headaches finally traded it in at 18 months and loss $8000 in the process.

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  Poor Reliability - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By Mschloe - September 16 - 10:00 am

  Eight months after we bought the van it had an electrical problem. Five more electrical problems in about two and half years, we sold the van. Dealer would say I left copper pennies in the outlets -- I pay for them to fix. Then within 24 hours, they would have to come get it for the same problem. This time it was the alternator. Less than 24 hours they have to come get it again, say it was the battery (this would be the third battery in this van / had to pay for prorated battery). That was the last straw. Other items replaced on van included air compressor, left fog light bulb, cargo bulb, radio replaced, and lumbar switch.

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  Im not impressed - 2005 Kia Sedona
  By Im not impressed - August 17 - 8:56 am

  My wife and I bought the van in May 05. With two kids, we figured a car wouldnt work so we bought the van. As for room, we should have stuck with a car. Not much more room offered. The seats are very uncomfortable. The gas mileage - absolutely horrible! But considering the price, safety and budget well have this van for quite a while. Gotta do it for the kids.

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  What di you expect it is a mini van! - 2004 Kia Sedona
  By Kwiebe - August 4 - 11:00 am

  Not much to say. If you are looking for a speed demon that turns like it is on rails this is not the vehicle for you. If you are like me and have a family that likes to travel a lot and need the extra space this is a nice choice. IMHO way better than any north American minivan but not as good as a Honda or a Toyota on par with the Nissan. I bought it used to save $$$ as the sedona has a terrible resale value and is an excellent used buy. It handles great for a van, a bit noisier than most mini vans but feels solid and well built. Acceleration was more than adequate and Im overall happy with this vehicle.

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  Family Van Disapointment - 2006 Kia Sedona
  By Kevin - June 25 - 12:20 am

  We have 44,000 miles on our van. Since we have owned the van it has been in the shop for warranty work many times. The intake system went bad requiring a tow truck. The air/conditioning compressor has been repaired twice. Power steering has been repaired twice. Three different suspension repairs have been made. The fuel pump has been repaired, wiring harness replaced, brake light switch replaced, engine block oil leak, bad airbag control module, bad seals on windows, doors sticking, doors not latching, etc. Difficulty getting proper alignment. Left us stranded twice. Kia had paid for it all. Dealership has been very helpful. Wondering what will happen when warranty expires.

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  You will pay for that warranty - 2002 Kia Sedona
  By KILLE IN ACTION -KIA - April 9 - 9:40 pm

  Own a 2002 KIA Sedona EX. I complained about lights going dim while under warranty. Kia checked, said everything within parameters. Guess what, 3000 miles out of warranty alternator died. KIA says its on you now. 63,000 miles and they want $565.00 to repair; that includes alternator, belts and labor. Its not a repair you can do either, seems AC lines are in the way. Do you think KIA planned it? Ask them about changing spark plugs the rear 3, seems you need to remove the air intake manifold? That will require new gaskets? Not sure of that cost. I hope to dump this Sedona by then! Think twice before you buy, they will get you to pay for that supposedly free 5year/60000 bumper to bumper warranty. RIPOFF.